Politics & Society

Champions of Aging

Here are 10 Americans who helped to build a nation that respects and protects its oldest citizens

by Patrick J. Kiger, May 1, 2013|Comments: 0

Our Hall of Fame

They came from divergent backgrounds but shared a common cause: fighting for the interests, rights, financial security and overall well-being of older Americans. Learn more about these movers and shakers in this virtual hall of fame.
— AARP

1 of 11

Ethel Percy Andrus

The founder of AARP was an educator who never stopped teaching. Read Andrus' story.
— AARP

2 of 11

Robert M. Ball

The lifelong civil servant (pictured upper right) oversaw the creation of the Medicare system in the mid-1960s, which may have been the largest government undertaking since D-Day. Read Ball's story.
— Courtesy of the Social Security Administration

3 of 11

Warren W. Blaney

Many compete in the Senior Olympics, but few can name the movement’s founder (pictured far right).Read Blaney's story.
— Courtesy of Worth Blaney

4 of 11

Robert N. Butler

Butler was raised by his grandparents, became a doctor and fought prejudice and discrimination against older Americans. Read Butler's story.
— Courtesy of the International Longevity Center USA